Meet the Person Behind the Lens

My name is Jillian Kraus — my journey with photography began long before I had a business or camera of my own.

As a kid, I’d take pictures on my parents’ phones or an old digital camera, and one year I was gifted a polaroid camera that quickly became one of my favorite things. Once I had my own phone, I was always taking pictures — of sunsets, trees, vacations, and myself with friends. I’d often print the photos out for scrapbooks or to tape up on my bedroom walls. I have just always really enjoyed documenting my life through taking photos. Although I didn’t always know it at the time, I was capturing moments not just to look at, but to remember how they felt.

Growing Up Around Photography

Photography has always been personal for me. My dad is a professional photographer with his own successful business, and growing up, there was pretty much always a camera around — and often pointed at my siblings and I! As much as I didn’t always love being in front of the lens, looking back now, I really appreciate it and am so glad I have the photos to remember my childhood by. They are a great reminder of how important it is to document life as it happens — even the small, seemingly ordinary moments, because it all moves so quickly.

My experience growing up around photography has shaped how I approach every session. I know what it’s like to feel awkward, insecure, and unsure in front of a camera, which is why I do everything I can to make each session feel relaxed, encouraging, and supportive. I will help guide you through poses when you need it, but I also use natural prompts to bring out the candid moments — the little in-betweens that often become the most treasured photos.

Working with Kids

Outside of photography, another huge part of my life has always been working with children. I have three siblings, two of them being younger, and right from the start I took my role as big sister very seriously, and still do today. My love for nurturing and teaching started young — from playing with baby dolls to then becoming a mother’s helper at 13, and later babysitter and part-time nanny. I have built long-lasting relationships with many local families, and it has been one of my greatest joys getting to help these kids learn and grow. In addition to babysitting and nannying, I have worked at a local non-profit preschool for the past five years as a part of their summer program!

My background has been invaluable to my photography. I know how unpredictable working with children can be, and I embrace it. I don’t expect kids to sit still or smile on command, and I never let a less-than-cooperative moment stress me out, I find that the best approach to taking photos of kids, is to let them take the lead. I do my best to meet every child where they are, making space for their energy, their shyness, and their silly moods.

What Guides Me

I am currently a college student at SUNY Oswego studying Human Development, with plans to pursue a master’s in counseling. My education has given me deeper insight into people — how we grow, relate, and communicate — which influences the way I photograph and connect with my clients. I believe empathy, patience, and curiosity are some of my greatest strengths, both as a photographer and as a person.

So, what began as a creative outlet has grown into a true passion for documenting connection, emotion, and the beauty of life. I specialize in portrait photography, including families, couples, children and infants, and individuals. I also love photographing pets and animals, nature, and even the occasional sports game when the opportunity arises.

Whether you’re hoping to document a particular chapter or simply want to freeze a moment in time, I’m here to help create a warm, easygoing experience that feels authentic and full of joy — with photos you’ll want to hold onto forever.